Day 14: May 31

Rest Day:  Cardrona

Some time to relax and take in the views or perhaps wander around Cardrona and its surrounding countryside.  The more adventurous may want to visit either the Innerleithen or Glentress mountain bike centres, or maybe you just fancy a walk alongside the River Tweed.  Peebles is a bustling border town with good shopping opportunities for souvenirs.  Staying 2 nights here presents a great opportunity for catching up on laundry and also allows us to spend a little time caring for our bikes and, if necessary, pay a visit to one of the well-equipped local bike shops. 

We're staying in the Scottish Borders region, in the Tweed Valley.  I had a late breakfast this morning; it's nice to be in no rush.  There may have been several trips to the buffet tables........  Caught up on laundry, correspondence, blogging, etc.  Then out for a walk.  As I gazed around at the high hills all around us, I couldn't help but think there's going to be payback for yesterday's 8 mile downhill.   


There's a nice pathway by the River Tweed that goes to the nearest village of Peebles.  I think we may take that one on the bikes tomorrow.  I was surprised by the abundance of ferns in the area.  We saw a lot on our ride yesterday as well.  And, of course, lots of mosses too.



  

When I realized I really wasn't up to walking the hour and a half each way to Peebles, I turned off towards the Glentress Forest.  This is a big mountain biking centre with bike shop, cafe, lodging, and other adventures.  Even on a Friday it was a pretty busy place.  Judging by the amount of available parking, I think it is very well used.  








Back "home" for some R&R.




After checking in to the hotel yesterday and really not understanding a word the desk clerk said to me, I had a note on FB today from a Scottish friend saying "Hope you have your Google Translate App".  Hmmm.

The Scottish Borders area has a rich cultural heritage.  I had intentions to put a brief summary on here, but will just read about it instead.  

Back on the bikes tomorrow.










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